Re: Theory Sez Flight Evolution Linked To Parental Care

["T. Mike Keesey" <tmk@dinosauricon.com>]

On Wed, 30 Jan 2002, Richard W Travsky wrote:

> http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2002/01/020130073659.htm

> Until now, there have been two basic theories on the origins of bird
> flight. The first, the arboreal theory, is a tree-to-ground model... The
> second, the cursorial theory, is a ground-up model that suggests that
> birds evolved from four-legged reptiles. ...

This just sounds like a modified arboreal theory to me.

> * Fossil specimens of Archaeopteryx have forelimb claws, supporting the
> concept that ancient bird ancestors were tree-dwellers;

Because all creatures with clawed forelimbs are tree-dwellers? o_O

> * The feathers on Archaeopteryx fossils appear to be much more advanced
> than the creature's other birdlike traits, which is consistent with the
> notion that feathers evolved very early
fine up to here; the rest doesn't seem to follow to me
> to shield the nest-sitting adults from the elements;

Maybe I should actually read it. It seems like this idea could mesh well
with Dial's wing-assisted incline running idea.

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